The Partners for Health Foundation has awarded a two-year, $120,000 grant to Table to Table, New Jersey’s first and largest food rescue nonprofit. The funding reinvests in Table to Table’s 27-year mission to reduce environmental food waste while directly addressing health inequities and hunger across northern New Jersey.
The grant arrives at a critical juncture for the region. State food systems are currently bracing for heightened demand due to recent SNAP policy changes and eligibility disruptions, which experts warn will significantly spike food insecurity.
“We are incredibly grateful for this generous grant, which is helping Table to Table advance our mission of keeping perfectly good food out of landfills while providing nourishment to children, families, seniors, and veterans facing food insecurity,” Heather Thompson, executive director of Table to Table, said. “The Foundation’s continued partnership has further fortified our food rescue efforts, allowing us to deepen our impact by growing our network of food donors, community partners, and volunteers.”
While traditional food pantries often rely on shelf-stable items, Table to Table focuses on rescuing and delivering fresh, perishable items—including vegetables, fruit, and dairy—free of charge to 276 community partners.
This distinction is vital for public health. Consistent access to fresh, nutrient-dense foods reduces the risk of chronic, diet-related conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease—illnesses that disproportionately affect families experiencing financial strain.
“With nearly 1.1 million New Jersey residents experiencing food insecurity while billions of meals’ worth of food are wasted annually, Table to Table plays a critical role in the State’s food security ecosystem,” Pam Scott, executive director of Partners for Health Foundation, said.
